After providing his name and location within Forest Lawn Cemetery, which is located approximately 40 miles northwest of Charlotte, Trickle tells the operator: "There's gonna be a dead body . . . It's a suicide."

On Thursday, the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office told reporters that Trickle died of an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound, the Associated Press reported.

Authorities reportedly attempted to call the number back, but no one answered. Foul play is not suspected.

Though he never won a Cup race, Trickle was an extremely popular driver enjoying an almost cult-like status before his death due to his larger-than-life personality and his penchant for fun.

In 1989, Trickle was named Rookie of the Year in the Winston Cup series, now the Sprint Cup series, at the age of 48 - the oldest driver in the Cup's history to do so.

"Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of Dick Trickle on his passing today," NASCAR Chairman and CEO Brian France said. "Dick was a legend in the short-track racing community, particularly in his home state of Wisconsin, and he was a true fan favorite. Personalities like Dick Trickle helped shape our sport. He will be missed."

Trickle's death was felt across the NASCAR community.

"He made such an impression on people . . . that everyone wanted to know when Dick was coming back," fellow NASCAR driver Geoff Bodine said. "They loved him."

Trickle is survived by his wife of nearly 53 years, Darlene, their sons Todd and Chad and daughter Shannon.